Portret van een meisje met boek in de hand, zittend op een stoel 1860 - 1880

F.D. van Rosmalen & Zoon made this portrait of a girl with a book in hand in the Netherlands. The absence of a precise date makes it difficult to pinpoint its exact historical moment. Yet, this seemingly simple image speaks volumes about the social and cultural values of its time. The photograph likely comes from the late 19th century, a period of increasing emphasis on education, particularly for young girls of a certain social standing. The book in the girl’s hands is more than just a prop; it symbolizes knowledge, virtue, and the aspirations of a rising middle class. The stiff pose and formal attire, coupled with the plain backdrop, reflect the seriousness with which such portraits were regarded. These images were tools for constructing and reinforcing social identity. To understand its full significance, we need to delve into the history of education, class, and gender roles through archives and records. By doing so, we can better appreciate how this single image reflects a much broader set of social and institutional forces.